Rockwell Collins and China Electronics Technology Avionics Co. Ltd (CETCA) have signed a letter of intent with Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China Ltd. (COMAC) to provide communication and navigation solutions for its new C919 family of single-aisle aircraft. A signing ceremony took place to commemorate the agreement in Chengdu, Sichuan.

Rockwell Collins and CETCA also have signed a memorandum of agreement to establish a China-based joint venture, which is expected to sign the formal supply agreement with COMAC by the end of this year.

Rockwell Collins has a long history of work with the Chinese aviation industry and its suppliers. The company's equipment is installed in many airplanes manufactured in China (ARJ21, MA60/600, Y8, Y12, K8, and H425), and is on nearly every Western airliner operated by China's airlines.

Governor of Sichuan Province Jiang Jufeng extended a warm welcome to the new joint venture anticipated to be established in Chengdu, Sichuan. He anticipates this venture may help to stimulate the economy in the province.

Quotes:

"Rockwell Collins is the industry-leader in development of civil communication and aviation electronic solutions, while CETCA is a domestic supplier specializing in civil avionics solutions," said Jin Zhuanglong, president of COMAC. "I believe, by working together, Rockwell Collins and CETCA will successfully fulfill the mission of developing communication and navigation systems for C919 to meet the requirements of the C919 technical scheme as well as the airworthiness regulations."

"We'll work closely with Rockwell Collins to deliver the world-class systems for C919 program, making it soar in the sky as early as possible," said Wang Zhigang, president of CETC.

"This is an outstanding opportunity to continue our solid track record with COMAC, while further expanding our 25-year commitment in China, which remains a key growth market for our company," said Kent Statler, executive vice president and COO, Commercial Systems for Rockwell Collins.

"The joint venture also will allow Rockwell Collins to put into practice our philosophy of 'building trust everyday,' which will strengthen our 'guanxi' with our partners and COMAC," added TC Chan, vice president and managing director of Asia Pacific for Rockwell Collins.